Florida State struggled to find any sort of semblance of a running game throughout the 2011 season. Only two teams in the ACC averaged less than the Seminoles 112.2 yards per game on the ground. FSU averaged just 3.3 yards per carry.

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Florida State's running game was unable to get going much of the year due to a number of injuries along the offensive line, as well as a devastating season-ending injury to Chris Thompson in just the fifth game of the season. With Thompson out, the load fell to true freshman Devonta Freeman because seniors Jermaine Thomas and Ty Jones continued to make mental errors despite being the elder statesmen. Freeman performed admirably leading the team with an average of 4.8 yards per carry, he also had 15 receptions for 111 yards.

Like the Seminoles' quarterback play, the running game was handicapped much of the year by poor offensive line. The running backs certainly didn't do the team any favors as they struggled in pass protection and with assignments as well during the season. I think the injury to Thompson was a bigger blow that people think. Last season he didn't only lead the team in rushing but he was the homerun threat as well for the offense. I think that we saw glimpses of what Freeman can do, and he could have a speculator season in 2012 after going through his second set of spring practices. I also think that after a spring and another fall camp of meetings and practices, Wilder will become a bigger part of the offense next season.